Dubrovnic

Dubrovnic is a marvel to see. Granted UNESCO status, the old city is surrounded by huge medievial walls which support an array of terracotta capped rooftops.

The old walled town of Dubrovnic does not have a cruise terminal. The cruise terminal and port, including the yacht marina is around the headland, but by road is around 2 1/2 miles away.

There are plenty of local taxi cabs and most cruise ships will arrange shuttle buses but it is something to be aware of. Locally to the port, the places to look at are minimal, with the port being reasonably industrial, there are a few bars and a chance to view the huge Franjo Tuđman Bridge but this is almost it. It is possible to walk to the old city, but the roads can be uneven and traffic can be fast.

Most visitors enter the old city via Pile gate, which is the main gate and the local pick up and drop off location for the local taxi drivers. Most ship organised transfers and tours drop passengers just further round the corner in the car park. The walk from this area is only a minute back to the Pile gate and allows safe exit from the coaches.

Taxi fares from the cruise terminal to the old city are between 10 - 15 Euros for 3 - 4 passengers. The position of your cruise ship will depend on a number of factors, from who gets there first to a question of size. Some of the smaller cruise ships may anchor outside the old city and use their own tenders to transfer to the old cities port, which is mainly now used by the local fishermen and the small number of locally organised boat tours.

There are lots of things to see, but there are also hidden gems. For those who do not wish to travel into the old city, you can travel to the north end of the cruise terminal and look at the huge Franjo Tuđman Bridge. This soars above the cruise terminal. There are also hidden bars and restaurants. At the south end by the small yacht marina, there is a bland superstore building, which looks rather grim, however, hidden on the top floor is a roof terrace bar and pizzeria. As this is kept away from most of the public, theres a real opportunity to relax and enjoy the views over the marina towards the cruise ships.

It is also worthwhile to walk along some of the many alleyways between the main streets. Although the cruise ships keep you supplied with more food you could ever wish for, try one of the small cafes in an alley. Squid is very popular together with a whole variety of seafood all freshly caught. The local bread is also very tasty. Prices vary, but seem to rise the closer to the main streets in the city.

Information

Places to see

The old city walls
includes some steep climbs, but worth the view.

Cable Car
Rebuilt after the last was destroyed in the war. This new cable car built in 2010 offers stunning views on the short climb. Costs roughly 10 euros.

Franciscan Monastery
This is a beautiful 14th century monastery is decorated with frescos on the cloister walls and plenty of statuary. The monastry also contains one of the worlds oldest pharmacies.

Rector's Palace
The interior of the Palace is excellent with some beautiful classical architecture, with the main courtyard is pleasant to visit as well. Look out for the pair of bronze statues in the palace. These are originally from the bell tower.